Islamic group says criminals misrepresent Islam, condemns Oyo abductions, urges government action on insecurity

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

The Federation of Ahlus-Sunnah Organizations in Nigeria (FASON) has declared that Islam has no connection with terrorism, banditry, kidnapping or any other form of criminal activity, insisting that such acts contradict Islamic teachings.

The group said anyone who truly follows the principles of Islam will not engage in violence or crimes against individuals, communities or society.

The position was made by the National Amir of FASON, Sheikh Tajudeen Abdul-Kareem (Baba Lagbeni), during a press conference in Ibadan. The event was attended by the Deputy National Amir, Alhaji Salisu Abdullahi; Amir of Universal Muslim Brotherhood, Alhaji Abdulateef Olaniyan; and Chairman of the Sharia Panel in Oyo State, Sheikh Abdullahi Adedeji.

Abdul-Kareem said the press briefing became necessary following the abduction of 39 students and seven teachers in Oyo State, as well as what he described as negative statements linking Islam and Muslims to criminal activities across the country.

He stressed that terrorism, banditry and other violent acts “have no link or basis in Islam anywhere in the world,” adding that those associating such crimes with Islam are enemies of the religion.

Quoting the Qur’an, he referenced Qur’an 5:23, saying it prescribes punishment for those who engage in terrorism, banditry and other forms of injustice, and used it to reinforce his argument that Islam condemns such acts.

He urged the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors and security agencies to intensify efforts to curb insecurity across the country, warning that the issue should not be treated lightly.

The cleric also disclosed that members of the group have been praying for the release of the abducted 39 students and seven teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, adding that they will continue prayers until the victims are freed.

According to him, “This press conference centres on the current issues in the country, especially the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State. We are praying for their successful release and for peace in the country. We do not want war in Nigeria or anywhere in the world.”

He condemned the kidnappers, saying they should abandon their activities because such acts bring no reward in this world or the hereafter.

“The bandits should stop it. It is better for them to stop it because it has no reward here or in the hereafter,” he said.

Abdul-Kareem also urged government at all levels not to neglect security responsibilities and to implement policies that improve citizens’ living conditions.

He warned against attributing violence or banditry to Islam or Muslims, saying such claims are misleading.

“Do not attribute violence and banditry to Islam or Muslims. Islam has no link with terrorism or kidnapping,” he said.

He added that criminals misrepresent all faiths, stating that a true Muslim will not kill an innocent person, just as a true Christian would not do so.

He further warned that those attempting to damage the image of Islam would fail, stressing that peace and cooperation among all religious groups are necessary for national stability.

Abdul-Kareem also advised politicians not to mix religion with politics, saying the two should remain separate to avoid tension during the election period.

Source: ThisDay